It only makes sense to talk about kingdoms on the day Windows XP reaches end of support, and Windows 8.1 Update is launched. A former king gives way to the new lord.

Something similar is at play here in Kingdoms & Lords, another simulation game from Gameloft that made an appearance on the Windows Store not so long ago. This colorful title offers all the trademark qualities one expects from the company.

The official description:

“In Kingdoms & Lords, the peace and quiet of your rural village are shattered by the threat of Barbarian forces. With war upon your region, you must build up your village and train your militia. But, things take a turn for the worst: the Dark King has returned to power, invading every territory across the continent…”

I like it how they ended the sentence — makes it intriguing.

Luckily, the game is just that. Part simulation and part strategy, this multiplayer game is all about raising an army and attacking your neighboring empire. The players get to cultivate crops, raise animals as they expand their lands in a medieval setting.

And while you do need to take care of the economic side of things, the combat part of the game is staller as well, with powerful magic cards that can be used during battles.

Graphical presentation is top notch, as is the audio. The social aspects of this free game make it a delight to play with friends. It is available for all versions of Windows 8.1, ARM based ones included.